Is Right Turn on Red Legal in Kentucky? (2026)
Yes — Right Turn on Red is legal in Kentucky as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Right turn on red is legal in Kentucky after coming to a complete stop and yielding to pedestrians and cross traffic, unless a sign prohibits it at a specific intersection. No significant statewide changes have been made in 2023-2024, but local ordinances may restrict right turns on red.
What the Law Says
Kentucky law permits a right turn on a red light after a complete stop, unless a sign specifically prohibits it. Drivers must yield to pedestrians and other traffic.
— Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 189.338
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| General Rule | Legal after complete stop |
| Exceptions & Restrictions | N/A |
| Traffic Violation Penalty | Traffic violation if sign prohibits it at specific intersection. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant statewide changes have been made in 2023-2024, but local ordinances may restrict right turns on red.
Enforcement Reality
Right turns on red are permitted after a complete stop, unless a sign prohibits it. Cities and counties can prohibit right turns on red at specific intersections.
A common mistake is failing to come to a complete stop before turning. There is also a law allowing motorcyclists to proceed through a red light after waiting two cycles, which can cause confusion.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Kentucky. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Right Turn on Red is legal in Kentucky. You can turning right on red without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Kentucky vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, turning right on red is fully legal in 49 states, restricted in 1, and illegal in 0. Kentucky falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Right Turn on Red:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is turning right on red legal in Kentucky?
Can you turn right on red in Kentucky?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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